Noreen Scott: A Journey of Love and Commitment

Noreen Scott’s journey with Deer Lodge Centre is deeply personal and poignant. Her husband, Frank, has been a resident on the Centre’s specialized unit for two years, where he receives the care he needs for his complex behavioural issues. For Noreen, Deer Lodge Centre represents not just a healthcare facility but a sanctuary of calm and compassion that has profoundly impacted their lives.

Finding the Right Place

Noreen’s initial encounter with Deer Lodge Centre was marked by apprehension. Frank had been a challenging patient elsewhere, requiring a specialized unit that could provide the appropriate care and support. “He was a patient at a personal care home, and it was a nightmare,” Noreen recalls. “He needed a behavioural unit, and this was the place for him. As soon as he was here that first week, I knew he was in the right place.”

The change in environment was palpable. Frank’s previously disruptive behaviour, characterized by outbursts and distress, was replaced by a newfound calmness. “He wasn’t screaming and yelling the way he was before,” Noreen notes. This transformation reinforced her belief that Deer Lodge Centre was where Frank truly belonged.

A New Chapter for Noreen

The move to Deer Lodge Centre not only changed Frank’s life but also marked a significant shift for Noreen. Having cared for Frank at home for seven years, she faced the emotional challenge of adjusting to a new routine. “It was a big adjustment,” she admits. “But I realized that it’s about Frank being happy, content, and settled. He rules the roost right now, and I just follow him.”

Noreen found solace in the supportive environment of Deer Lodge Centre. She quickly formed connections with other family members of residents, creating a network of mutual support and understanding. “It’s a good thing because we can talk to each other and compare notes,” she says. “We can console each other, which is huge in this world that we’re in right now.”

Active Involvement and Advocacy

Noreen’s involvement with Deer Lodge Centre extends beyond her role as a family member. She has become an active participant in the Resident and FamilyCouncil, a committee with a purpose to ensure the experience, knowledge and skills of residents and family members are used to guide their own future and shape the home in which they live. “For me, it was educational because I didn’t realize what all went on in Deer Lodge,” she shares. This newfound knowledge has inspired her to explore volunteer opportunities, particularly in assisting with patient care. “I come from a medical background, so I’m definitely hands-on,” Noreen explains, expressing a desire to help feed patients and support the staff.

A Place to Call Home

For Noreen, the journey with Deer Lodge Centre has been one of discovery and reassurance. Despite initial reservations about the location, she has come to appreciate the specialized care and close-knit community that the Centre offers. “At first, I was not happy about coming here because it’s a long trip,” she admits. “But the first week that Frank was here, I realized that it’s not about me; it’s about him. This is where he belonged.”

Reflecting on the past two years, Noreen can’t help but express her gratitude. “I can’t say enough about the unit and how great everybody is,” she says. The supportive staff and the small, intimate unit have provided a stable and nurturing environment for Frank, allowing him to live with dignity and respect.

Noreen Scott’s story is a testament to the compassionate care provided by Deer Lodge Centre. Her dedication to Frank’s well-being and her active involvement in the community exemplify the Centre’s mission to offer inclusive, high-quality care. As Noreen continues to advocate for Deer Lodge Centre, her journey of love and commitment serves as an inspiration to all who encounter her story.

Donate today to the Deer Lodge Centre Foundation and be a part of something truly special.